New Salernitana coach hoping good things come in threes

Salernitana has turned to a familiar face in their time of need. Stefano Colantuono, a seasoned manager with two previous spells at the helm, has returned as head coach, tasked with reviving the fortunes of the relegation-threatened Serie A outfit.

A Third Time Lucky for Colantuono?

Colantuono’s first stint at Salernitana began in December 2017. He guided the team to a respectable mid-table finish in Serie B before stepping down a year later. He returned for a second spell in February 2021, again in Serie B. This time, however, his tenure was shorter, lasting just five months before he parted ways with the club.

Now, with Salernitana precariously placed in Serie A, the club’s management has once again entrusted Colantuono with the reins. This time, the challenge is far greater. Salernitana currently sits just above the relegation zone, and Colantuono’s experience and familiarity with the club are seen as crucial assets in their fight for survival.

Hoping for a Winning Start

Colantuono’s return is not without its fair share of optimism. In both his previous stints at Salernitana, he managed to win his first away game in charge. This bodes well for his upcoming debut, a daunting trip to the Renato Dall’Ara stadium to face a high-flying Bologna side currently chasing Champions League qualification.

A Daunting Task Ahead

However, Colantuono inherits a team in a state of flux. Salernitana went through three different managers in the season leading up to his appointment. Inconsistent results and a lack of squad cohesion have left the team vulnerable.

Colantuono’s Priorities

Colantuono’s immediate priorities will likely be:

• Shoring up the defense: Salernitana has conceded one of the highest number of goals in Serie A this season.
• Improving team spirit and organization: The constant managerial changes have undoubtedly impacted team morale and tactics.
• Extracting the best from key players: Salernitana boasts talented individuals like Franck Ribéry and Simone Verdi. Colantuono will need to get them firing on all cylinders.

A Look at Colantuono’s Managerial Style

Known for his pragmatic approach, Colantuono favors a defensive style of play that prioritizes organization and solidity. While not always the most aesthetically pleasing, his tactics have proven effective in the past, particularly in keeping teams afloat in relegation battles.

Can Colantuono Deliver?

Only time will tell if Colantuono’s third stint at Salernitana will be the charm. His experience and familiarity with the club are undeniable advantages. However, the task at hand is far from easy. He faces a team low on confidence and a daunting opening fixture.

Following Colantuono’s Journey

Serie A fans can follow Colantuono’s progress with Salernitana throughout the season. Here are some resources to stay updated:

• Official Salernitana Website: https://salernitana.it/ (Italian)
• Serie A League Website: https://www.legaseriea.it/en (English)
• Italian Football News Websites and Apps

Stefano Colantuono’s return to Salernitana is a story of familiarity and hope. While the challenges he faces are significant, his experience and the club’s faith in him could prove to be the difference between relegation and survival. The upcoming season promises to be a fascinating one for Salernitana fans, with Colantuono’s leadership playing a pivotal role in determining the club’s fate.